Explorer’s Journal: SA Explorer Gerry’s Expedition Through Bhutan and Nepal

Join SA Explorer Gerry on an unforgettable journey through Nepal and Bhutan, where soaring Himalayan peaks, sacred monasteries, and vibrant traditions come together in two of the world’s most enchanting countries. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the mist-shrouded Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Gerry’s adventure was filled with breathtaking landscapes, profound spiritual moments, and encounters that revealed the deep-rooted philosophies of happiness and harmony that define the region. 

Hello from the Himalayas! I’m Gerry, an SA Expeditions Explorer. I recently had the chance to explore Nepal and Bhutan. From hiking to sacred temples to discovering unique cultural traditions, this journey gave me a whole new perspective on adventure, spirituality, and the joy of travel. 

First Glimpse of Nepal: Kathmandu 

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SA Explorer Gerry’s journey begins in Kathmandu at Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple—where mischievous primates, intricate shrines, and ancient symbolism set the tone for Nepal’s blend of chaos and serenity. (Photo: Gerry Coen)

Less than a two-hour flight from Delhi brought us to Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu—a city famed for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and breathtaking Himalayan views. It’s a place of striking contrasts: ancient temples rising amid modern chaos, the scent of incense mingling with the city’s energy, and moments of deep tranquility woven into the bustle. Our first stop was Swayambhunath, the famed Monkey Temple, an unforgettable introduction to Nepal. Here, architecture, spirituality, and nature converge. Spin the prayer wheels as the all-seeing eyes of the stupa gaze serenely over pilgrims and visitors alike. 

Sacred Stupas and Medieval Streets 

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The all-seeing eyes of Boudhanath Stupa set the tone for a morning steeped in spirituality—followed by a gourmet twist on Nepal’s signature momos before venturing onward to Bhaktapur’s medieval wonders. (Photo: Gerry Coen)

In the morning, we visited the world-renowned Boudhanath Stupa. Circling this sacred monument—always clockwise and in uneven numbers—you feel the ever-watchful eyes of the stupa following your every step. Keep some cash on hand if you wish to receive a blessing from the resident monks. After a gourmet fusion lunch featuring freshly steamed momos, Nepal’s beloved dumplings, we continued our journey to the medieval city of Bhaktapur. Here, it feels as though you’ve stepped into an open-air museum, where intricately carved palaces and temples whisper stories of ancient kings and revered gods. 

From the Himalayas to the Heart of Bhutan 

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From Bhutan’s elusive national animal, the Takin, to the towering Buddha Dordenma overlooking Thimphu, SA Explorer Gerry’s first day in the Land of the Thunder Dragon offered both whimsy and wonder. (Photo: Gerry Coen)

The journey from Nepal to Bhutan is a vivid reminder of the old saying: “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.” En route, the flight traces the mighty Himalayas, and with a little luck, rewards travelers with a bird’s-eye view of Mount Everest. Bhutan, often called the kingdom of happiness and harmony, values not GDP but GNH—Gross National Happiness. From the airport in Paro, we traveled straight to Thimphu, the nation’s capital, taking in sweeping landscapes that set the tone for our adventure. After lunch, we encountered the mystical Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, before ending the day at the foot of the Buddha Dordenma—one of the largest Buddha statues in the world—a fitting place to reflect on the country’s profound philosophy of spirituality and happiness. 

Thimphu’s Flavors, Crafts, and Traditions 

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From fiery chilies at the local market to taking aim with Bhutan’s national sport, archery, SA Explorer Gerry discovered the flavors and traditions that make Thimphu pulse with life. (Photo: Gerry Coen)

Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, is a city where tradition and modernity coexist in the shadow of the Himalayas. Known as the world’s only capital without traffic lights, it pulses with life and charm. We began our day with a guided walk through the bustling market, learning about Bhutan’s economy, imports, and exports while sampling the nation’s favorite flavors. From there, we headed to the Changlimithang Stadium & Archery Ground to watch an exhilarating match of Bhutan’s national sport. Later, we explored the country’s distinctive paper-making process and admired artisans at work creating vibrant artwork and handcrafts. As evening fell, we sipped ara (a local liquor) and butter tea while watching a traditional Bhutanese dance performance—capping the day with the chance to try our own hand at archery. 

A Day in Punakha’s Valley of Legends 

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From the Divine Madman’s hilltop temple to the sacred halls of Punakha Dzong, the journey ended with a golden sunset crossing Bhutan’s iconic suspension bridge—a day steeped in wisdom, wonder, and timeless beauty. (Photo: Gerry Coen)

Reaching Punakha’s lush valley begins with a scenic drive through the Dochu La Pass, where panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks unfold before you. Upon arrival, our first stop was Chhimi Lhakhang, a hilltop temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley—affectionately known as the Divine Madman. His radical and unconventional teachings explain why the phallus has become such a prominent and everyday symbol throughout Bhutan, reminding us not to be confined by conventional wisdom, cultural norms, or institutionalized existence. Our minds are bigger than that. After lunch, we explored the majestic Punakha Dzong. Within its golden walls, floors, and ceilings, the sensation of being present—listening to stories of the Buddha in a space where photography is forbidden—is beyond words. We ended the day crossing the swaying suspension bridge nearby, watching the sun set over a perfect Bhutanese evening. 

Paro and the Ascent to Tiger’s Nest 

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From the misty heights of the Tiger’s Nest Monastery to donning the traditional gho in Paro, SA Explorer Gerry ended his Bhutan journey with reflection, celebration, and a true sense of place. (Photo: Gerry Coen)

Paro is home to Bhutan’s most iconic monastery, the Tiger’s Nest, dramatically perched on a cliff nearly 900 meters above the valley floor. Hiking to this sacred site is both a challenge and a revelation—the air grows thin, the views stretch endlessly, and the sense of peace is profound. With an early start, we reached the monastery while it was still cloaked in morning mist, creating the magical feeling that we had it entirely to ourselves during our privately guided tour. Descending the mountain, triumphant and relieved, we paused at the best viewpoints to capture the moment, knowing the hardest part was behind us. Later in the day, we embraced Bhutan’s traditions with a soothing hot-stone bath, some playful moments donning the gho (the national dress for men), and final photos outside Paro Dzong before browsing for souvenirs. It was the perfect way to close our journey through Beautiful Bhutan. 

This journey through Bhutan and Nepal was truly life changing. I hope many others will have the chance to experience something similar. Taking time away from our busy lives to explore new cultures, embrace new adventures, and reconnect with nature is invaluable. I’m grateful to share this extraordinary Himalayan journey with you.